Union Budget 2024 boosts agriculture with increased funding and new initiatives

In the Union Budget 2024-25, the government has placed a strong emphasis on enhancing agricultural productivity. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a significant increase in the allocation for agriculture and allied activities, raising it to ₹1.52 lakh crore from ₹1.40 lakh crore in the previous year.

The budget outlines plans to introduce one crore farmers to natural farming methods over the next two years. A key goal is achieving self-sufficiency in pulses and oilseeds, with a strategy focused on increasing domestic production of crops such as mustard, groundnut, sesame, and soybean.

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Sitharaman also highlighted the commitment to releasing 109 new high-yielding and climate-resilient varieties of 32 different field and horticulture crops. This research aims to improve productivity and develop crops that can withstand changing climate conditions.

In addition to these measures, the government will work with states to implement Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in agriculture. This initiative will help digitize farmer and land records across 400 districts, covering details for six crore farmers. A digital crop survey for Kharif crops will be conducted as part of this effort.

To further support farmers, the budget includes plans to issue Jan Samarth-based Kisan Credit Cards in five states, making it easier for farmers to access credit.